Things to Do in Wintergreen During the Off Season

Wintergreen during the off season might just be one of Virginia’s best-kept secrets. While most people associate this Blue Ridge mountain escape with ski season, there’s something incredibly special about visiting in early spring—when the air is still crisp in the mornings and later in the evenings, but the sun warms the afternoon, and the pace feels more relaxed and less crowded.

This past weekend, my sorority family from Virginia Tech–yes, big, little, and grand-little 🤭–headed to Wintergreen for our annual trip together. This year, we landed on a cozy mountain escape filled with nature, s’mores, hiking, cooking, and most importantly, laughter and quality time together–like the good ole days! Visiting Wintergreen during mid March was such a pleasant surprise to all of us and I am sure that we will hopefully return in years to come.

If you want to find out why visiting Wintergreen in March is an INCREDIBLE time to visit, I lay out every detail of our trip, plus more–so that you can plan your perfect spring getaway to the mountains and discover the best things to do in Wintergreen during the off season. 🌄

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Why Visit Wintergreen in the Off Season

There’s something about March in Wintergreen that feels like the best of both worlds. Mornings and evenings are chilly enough for cozy sweaters and warm socks, but by midday, the sun comes out and temperatures can climb into the 60s or even 70s.

It’s quieter, more relaxed, and feels like you have the mountains all to yourself. If you’re planning a girls’ trip or just want a peaceful reset, this is truly one of the best times to go.

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Ease Into the Weekend with a Cozy Night In

We kept our first night simple, and it ended up being one of my favorite parts of the weekend.

After arriving, Anna lit the fire, and we settled into a cozy night in. We brought out a full spread of chips and dip, a charcuterie board, and popped some popcorn to snack on while we all got cozy and caught up with each other! Of course we had to make s’mores–but not just any s’more. Madison introduced us to her creation, Cookie S’mores, Deluxe, which is a chocolate chip cookie sandwich between a traditional s’more of Hershey’s chocolate, marshmallow, and graham cracker. They were incredible–of course–but you’ll just have to find out for yourself and try one!

It was the perfect way to ease into the weekend before a full day ahead.

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Slow Breakfast at Home

We eased into our day starting off by making homemade breakfast to fuel us for a full day ahead. I’d recommend buying groceries in advance so you have everything you need before the weekend begins!

Start Your Day with a Hike

We originally planned to hike Humpback Rocks, but it was closed when we arrived—so we pivoted and ended up exploring Bee Mountain and Love Gap instead, which turned out to be such a great alternative. I think overall we walked about 3 and half miles!

The trails offered beautiful views and ended up being the perfect distance for us. Love Gap in particular has a scenic overlook that’s perfect if you’re looking for something easy and rewarding, while Bee Mountain gave us that peaceful, wooded trail feel.

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Stop at Bold Rock Cidery

Next, we headed to Bold Rock Cidery, which felt like the perfect continuation of the day.

We ordered cider flights and sat outside in the sun, talking, laughing, and not rushing anything. It was so lively with people chatting and gathering together enjoying the nice weather.

Many of the breweries, cideries, and wineries in the area—including Bold Rock and Devil’s Backbone—are located along Nelson 151, a scenic stretch that makes it easy to spend an afternoon moving from one stop to the next, taking in the views along the way.

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Head to Devil’s Backbone Brewing Company

After our hike, we made our way to Devil’s Backbone Brewing Company , which had the best kind of lively, laid-back energy. The outdoor space is beautiful, with live music playing, people tossing footballs in the grass, cornhole boards set up, and groups gathered around tables enjoying the afternoon.

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Dinner at The Edge

For dinner, we went to The Edge, which was the perfect spot to end a full day.

With March Madness on the TVs and a fun, energetic atmosphere, it was the perfect spot to end the day. It felt cozy without being crowded, and most people gathered around the bar, all watching the games together.

We kept it simple and ordered a few appetizers to share, which were all great and made for an easy, relaxed dinner.

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End the Night with a Cozy Evening In

After dinner, we went right back into cozy mode and finished our March Madness basketball game at the condo. We played games and also ended the night with a Cookie S’mores Deluxe.

We had the best time relaxing, spending time in the nature, and catching up together in the mountains. 🌄❤️

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Slow Sunday Morning at Belties

Before heading home, we made one last stop for breakfast at Belties. It was the cutest little place! Anna and I ordered the brown sugar shaken espresso and Brooke tried their hot chocolate–both were amazing! They are known for their biscuits and had many interesting options on the menu. I went with a classic, sausage, egg, and cheese; however, next time, I really want to try the chicken pot pie biscuit that is served in a mug! I also got the Beltie’s Bun to try later–which is a cinnamon cardamom bun that wasn’t too sweet.

Because it’s a farm cafe, they had cows, chickens, and roosters roaming about! We got to hear more about the cows from a gentleman inside the bard after we ate. Each one has a name and are definitely well loved by all of the visitors. We were greeted with a loud COCK-A-DOODLE-DOO upon arriving. 😂

We loved this place so much and I highly, highly recommend stopping in for a biscuit, coffee, and to see the animals. Brooke and I are actually heading back to the mountains for a little birthday weekend fun next weekend and have already said we are coming back here!

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What to Wear for a Wintergreen Weekend

Spring in the mountains is all about layers.

Think sweaters, boots, light jackets, and pieces you can easily add or take off throughout the day. Mornings and evenings are chilly, but afternoons can feel surprisingly warm in the sun.

I think I was too warm in my sweater and wish I would have worn something I could have taken on and off!

More Things to do in Wintergreen during the Off Season

There is truly so much to do in this beautiful area of Virginia. Here are some other places I have heard of that we did not get the chance to try!

• Veritas Vineyard & Winery – A stunning winery with sweeping mountain views and a more elevated feel
• Hazy Mountain – Beautiful winery and views
• Crabtree Falls – One of the most beautiful waterfall hikes in Virginia
• Blue Ridge Parkway – A.K.A America’s favorite drive. 😍 Perfect for scenic overlooks and slow drives through the mountains
• Luray Caverns – This one is a little farther out but SO cool if you have the time.

Part of the charm of this area is how much there is to discover just a short drive away. It’s so easy to find something to do or a new place to discover!

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Wrapping up the perfect Weekend in Wintergreen

All in all, Wintergreen in the off season is a PEAK time to visit. Still so much to do outdoors besides skiing! It is a perfect mix of leisure but also can make it very active. It was so refreshing to get some fresh mountain air, good quality time, and full days spent exploring and enjoying.

From slow mornings and s’mores by the fire to long afternoons at breweries and cideries, it was a much needed relaxation and fulfilling weekend with precious friends.

If you’re looking for an easy and fun spring mountain getaway in Virginia, I can’t recommend Wintergreen and the surrounding area enough.

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• A Fall Weekend in Boston
• 4 Maine Beach Towns You Don’t Want To Miss

Thanks for reading. 🫶🏻 And let me know in the comments what your favorite place is when you visit this area. 💛